Potential hazards vary depending on the work environment, but identifying them is a crucial step in preventing incidents. To identify potential hazards, consider factors such as body part entrapment, tool and machine hazards, contact with moving objects, slip, trip, and fall hazards, strain from physical exertion, exposure to extreme temperatures, excessive noise or vibration, falling objects, lighting issues, weather conditions, harmful radiation, contact with hazardous substances, and airborne contaminants.

Once hazards are identified, preventive measures should be determined using the hierarchy of controls. This involves eliminating the hazard through process modification, substitution with less hazardous products, improved ventilation, or equipment changes. If elimination is not feasible, the hazard should be contained using enclosures, machine guards, or worker booths. Work procedures can be revised to modify hazardous steps or add safety measures like lockout procedures. Reducing exposure can be achieved by minimizing the frequency of hazard encounters or using personal protective equipment.

Specific examples of hazards and controls include:

• Wind Turbines: Hazards include working at heights, high voltage, electric shock, musculoskeletal disorders, noise, vibration, temperature extremes, crush injuries, wind, lightning, and rotating equipment. Control measures include proper lifting and rigging equipment, fall prevention equipment, and personal protective equipment, including arc flash protection. Control measures implemented during the design phase of the turbine should also be considered to protect equipment from overheating, overvoltage, or other electrical failures such as grid failure.

• Boom Lifts: Hazards include tipping. To mitigate tipping hazards: Ensure that the ground conditions are adequate to support the maximum tire load indicated on the tire load decals located on the chassis adjacent to each wheel. Do not travel on unsupported surfaces. The user must be familiar with the operating surface before driving. Do not exceed the allowable side slope and grade while driving.

• Electrical Work: When working on or near exposed energized parts, employees must maintain minimum approach distances. For example, maintain a clearance of at least 10 ft (3m) between any part of the machine and its occupants, their tools, and their equipment from any electrical line or apparatus carrying up to 50,000 volts. One foot additional clearance is required for every additional 30,000 volts or less.